bob mackie

Bob Mackie (March 24, 1939 – September 14, 2026) was a legendary American fashion designer and costumier, widely celebrated as the "Sultan of Sequins," the "Rajah of Rhinestones," and the "Guru of Glitter" for his imaginative and sparkling designs.

Career Highlights

• Costume Design: Mackie was famous for dressing entertainment icons, most notably Cher, with whom he had a long-standing creative partnership, as well as Carol Burnett, Tina Turner, Dolly Parton, Elton John, Whitney Houston, and many others.
• The Carol Burnett Show: He served as the costume designer for the show for its entire eleven-year run, creating everything from high-glamour gowns to comedic outfits, including the iconic curtain-rod dress.
• Awards and Recognition: Throughout his illustrious career, he won nine Primetime Emmy Awards and a Tony Award (for The Cher Show in 2019). He was also nominated for three Academy Awards for Best Costume Design and was inducted into the Television Academy Hall of Fame in 2002.
• Fashion Legacy: In addition to his stage and screen work, he launched a ready-to-wear line in the 1980s, became a fixture on QVC, and collaborated with Mattel to design outfits for collectible Barbie dolls, emphasizing cultural diversity in his designs.

Early Life and Background

Born in Monterey Park, California, Mackie grew up inspired by the glamour of Technicolor musicals. He studied advertising, illustration, and costume design in Southern California before beginning his career as a sketch artist for renowned designers like Edith Head.

Bob Mackie passed away on September 14, 2026, at the age of 87 in Palm Springs, California, from pneumonia.